Police and health chiefs are reinforcing a warning by Bradford’s recently-retired Coroner to prevent deaths of sleeping babies.

Research has shown about 300 sudden infant deaths occur in the UK each year, an average of 17 of which are in West Yorkshire.

About one in three sudden infant deaths in the region happen when babies share adult beds or sleep on a sofa or car seat.

Roger Whittaker, who retired this month from his 15-year career as a Coroner, wants to drive home the message that the safest place for babies under six months old to sleep is in a cot in their parents’ room.

He said: “Even though the numbers of sudden infant deaths are reducing, 17 each year in West Yorkshire is still far too high.

“The risk of infant death is heightened when parents smoke, consume alcohol, drugs or some medications or are very tired. Babies sleeping on a sofa or in a car seat for a long period of time are also at risk.

“Baby deaths are very distressing for everyone and I want to ensure that parents of newborns are listening to the advice that is out there and taking simple measures to keep their child as safe as possible.”

Dr Sophie Egerton, public health registrar seconded to West Yorkshire Police, said: “There are several theories which help to explain why sharing a bed or sofa with a young infant, with other risk factors, can increase the risk of sudden infant death.

“A baby’s airway can be blocked if its chin is pushed into the chest.

“By sleeping in a cot or a crib, it provides a flat and firm surface which prevents the baby’s head from being forced into its chest.

“Babies can easily get trapped between the back of a sofa and cushions and they are more likely to roll from their back onto their front if sharing a soft mattress or sofa with an adult who is moving about.

“The message is clear: by putting your baby in a cot or a crib, you are reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Brennan, head of West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “West Yorkshire Police have a duty to investigate all deaths, including baby deaths, and these are without doubt one of the most distressing times for any parent and their families.

“The force has been working very closely with Coroners Mr Whittaker and David Hinchliff, together with the NHS, to raise awareness of the risks and dangers of co-sleeping with babies.

“It is vital that we get these important messages across.”